Mini Brake Pads/Rotors
Understanding Brakes
A Mini Cooper utilizes a disc-brake system, as is the case with most modern vehicles. Disc brakes consist of a rotor that is connected to the wheel, and sandwiched between two outer brakes pads. When the brake pedal is pushed, brake fluid rushes to the brake calipers, resulting in hydraulic pressure that pushes the brake pads against the rotor and thus slows the car down. Though it sounds simple, the braking system is an advanced system requiring regular maintenance, care and professional repairs when necessary.
Have your brakes inspected regularly, as part of the Mini Maintenance Schedule. However, if you experience any of these warning signs, have the vehicle inspected:
- Squealing when you apply the brakes
- Brake Wear Indicator light is illuminated
- Unresponsive brakes or having to depress the pedal hard to slow down
- Vibrations in the steering wheel when applying the brakes
Brake Pads
The brake pads on the Mini should regularly be checked for any wear and tear, like cracks or a significant decrease to their thickness. If you hear a “squeal” when you apply the brakes, that means the pads have worn considerably. A brake inspection is part of the regularly scheduled Mini Maintenance program, specifically, Inspection.
When new, the front pads measure around 10-11mm in thickness and the rear brake pads measure 8-10mm. They have a service life of about 3-4mm. The time in between replacing brake pads can vary significantly, based on your driving habits, climate and other factors. Therefore it is important to have them checked regularly.
Brake Pad Sensor
Brake Pad Sensors are small metal sensors that will help notify you when the brake pads have become worn or faulty. The sensors are made of a wire loop that is set against the brake rotor. When it gets worn through, the circuit will be exposed and the Brake Wear Indicator light will illuminate. The light should come on before you start to hear any squealing. If this warning light comes on, set up an appointment at our independent service garage at German Car Depot for immediate repair.
Brake Rotors
The rotors should be regularly examined for any defects or grooves. Discoloring is equally a problem because it could be due to overheating. The rotors on a Mini can become warped due to everyday wear or in instances where the brakes have been applied often when driving through puddles or deep water.
One noticeable sign that the brake rotors are warped will be vibration in the steering wheel. This is because the brake rotors turn with the steering wheel and they’ll pulsate as they come into contact with the damaged rotor surface. If you feel any vibrations in the steering wheel when driving, contact us for an inspection.
Brake Fluid
The brake fluid keeps the entire braking system lubricated and helps protect against any water that could damage the system with rust. Every two years there should be a brake flush to clear out the brake fluid and replace it with new, abiding with the Mini factory service guidelines. Brake Fluid inspection is part of the Inspection I and Inspection II maintenance service.
Cost to Repair Brakes
It is important to adhere to the factory recommended maintenance schedule. It is far less expensive to prevent a problem, compared to the cost to repair brakes in a Mini. Plus, the safety of you and your passengers is of utmost importance. If you need your brakes checked or repaired, contact us at German Car Depot for an inexpensive service, with the same professionalism and experience as a dealership.